Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a laser treatment for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It lowers eye pressure by improving fluid drainage through the trabecular meshwork.
How SLT works
Short pulses of low-energy laser are applied to the drainage tissue inside the eye. This stimulates a biological response that increases outflow of aqueous fluid, reducing pressure.
- Usually performed in the clinic with numbing drops
- Recovery is quick and normal activities can often be resumed the same day
- The effect may last several years and can sometimes be repeated
Further information
SLT is typically offered within a dedicated glaucoma service as an alternative or addition to pressure-lowering drops. The video blog can glaucoma be treated with laser eye surgery? provides a neutral explanation of how laser treatments fit into glaucoma care.
